Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Issued by ChinaAid ...

"This prayer band has been declared illegal in China."

"Chinese police have stopped people on the streets and taken the bands off their wrists. Some have been interrogated and arrested; at least three families were evicted from their homes—for the government, the prayer band is a symbol of revolution."

"We thank everyone across the U.S. and around the world who answered the call to wear a 'Pray for China' prayer band and pray during the Olympics. Your willingness to stand with Chinese house church Christians encouraged them as they also wore prayer bands and prayed for their country. Their commitment came with a cost. Read more."

"Yet, house church Christians refuse to be intimidated. They say that prayer for China is even more critical now that the world is no longer watching. Persecution has increased. Will you join in this revolution of prayer for China?"

"They can arrest me or put me in prison, but I'm not going to stop praying for China. Although the prayer band is banned in China, prayer can never be banned. I am asking every Christian to support believers in China by wearing a prayer band." - a prominent house church leader

"At this crucial time, will you partner in prayer? And, will you please forward this information to others who will want to pray for the persecuted in China."

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 29, 2012

GERMANY - It is hard for refugees from countries like Iran or Afghanistan to begin new lives in Germany. Language is a barrier, and German bureaucracy in general and asylum laws in particular are hard to understand. In their home society, honoring elders and parents is very important. But in their refugee situation, because children are fast learners they are able to gain power over their parents, which leads to many frustrations. Asylum seekers are not allowed to work in Germany and have almost no training opportunities. At best, they might arrive at an official status in Germany known as "tolerated."

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 28, 2012

ALBANIA - When University Presbyterian Church (UPC) of Seattle sent its first mission volunteers to Albania, they could not have known what their initial steps would bring.

CLICK HERE to read more.

West Texas Mission Opportunities:Upward Basketball & Cheerleading

There are some for whom the word "mission" conjures up images of travels to the far side of the world for extended periods of time ... but that is NOT always the case. There are opportunities going on in your community - right here, right now - that have a genuine need for someone with exactly your skills, and exactly your schedule. One is Upward Basketball & Cheerleading, which kicks-off its 2012 season in West Texas, in just a couple of months - though registration is under way NOW.

Upward introduces children to Jesus Christ by creating opportunities to serve through sports. Upward is a fun, reliable, passionate and encouraging sports experience for boys and girls, in K5 through sixth grade. Upward provides first class, organized and detailed sports programming. Unique aspects of Upward include an evaluation system that promotes equal and competitive teams as well as a substitution system which allows for equal playing time for all participants.Through Upward, children are exposed to quality coaching and sport development. Upward emphasizes character and integrity instead of a “win at all costs” mentality associated with today’s sports world.

And, NO, you don't have to be a member of a church in order to participate!

There are all kinds of ways you can help the Upward program in your community ... all kinds of ways you can become a West Texas Missioner. You can be a coach, or an assistant, a referee or a timekeeper. You may also choose to present a brief devotional to the audience during the halftimes, while the teams are resting and getting ready for the next round of play. Your focus can be current events, a piece of Scripture from the Bible, or sports. You can compose your own, or work from guidelines that participating churches will provide you.

You can also help by signing-up your child, then heading to the game and cheering for everyone on the floor!

In Midland, there are programs at First Baptist Church (basketball only) and First Presbyterian Church .

In Odessa, there are programs at First Baptist Church and Second Baptist Church .

In Big Spring, there is a program at First Baptist Church (basketball only).

And in Lamesa, there is a program at First Baptist Church (basketball and cheerleading, PLUS football).

Traveling Mission

A TassaTag is a 4” x 6” bright, heavy, hand-woven cotton luggage tag that helps you spot your luggage more easily while reclaiming children's lives. It is practical, environmentally sensitive, fair trade, and with it you can make a difference.

With a TassaTag you support ECPAT-USA. This is a non-profit children's rights organization whose mission is to protect all children from commercial sexual exploitation, and is the US Chapter of Thailand-based ECPAT (End Child Prostitution and Trafficking) International, working at the community, national and international levels.

With a TassaTag you support The Regina Center in Nong Khai, Thailand, which provides education and income generating skills and opportunities for women. All proceeds from sales are returned to the producers. The project enables women to stay in their villages and keep their children in school, which are two major strategies in reducing sex trafficking.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this project
CLICK HERE to learn more about sex slavery and trafficking
CLICK HERE to order TassaTags

With a TassaTag you will be part of the ECPAT project by increasing the recognition of the TassaTag logo as a symbol against the sexual slavery and trafficking of children, raising greater awareness of this major illegal trade around the world, and being a voice positively addressing a serious children's rights issue.

In the News ... "St. James Baptist ‘Raises the Roof’ on relief work"

By Lyxan Toledanes
ReporterOdessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Little has changed at 400 S. Hancock Ave., where the charred remains of the St. James Baptist Church building still rest as a reminder of the fiery chaos on Aug. 2 that devastated an entire church community.

But the St. James congregation has slowly begun to move on as it hosted its second disaster relief worship service and fundraiser Monday evening at First United Methodist Church.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 27, 2012

ITALY - Lampedusa is a small Italian island midway between Sicily and North Africa. For thousands of people escaping from hunger, persecution, encroaching deserts, war, and political turmoil, Lampedusa has become the first stop on the way to what they hope will be the good life in Italy. For too many of them, though, the Italian dream ends in a Mediterranean nightmare. The sea between North Africa and Lampedusa is a cemetery for thousands of refugees whose boats could not make it all the way.

CLICK HERE to read more.

The Match is Back ... so let's get rolling!

Founded in 2001, Free Wheelchair Mission is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to providing wheelchairs for the impoverished disabled in developing nations. Headquartered in Irvine, California, FWM works around the world in partnership with a vast network of humanitarian, faith-based and government organizations, sending wheelchairs to hundreds of thousands of disabled people, providing not only the gift of mobility, but of dignity, independence, and hope.



The new and improved model!

Buy one ... GIVE TWO.  That's right ...for every dollar you give between now and October 31 ... ANOTHER WILL BE DONATED. For every wheelchair you give ... ANOTHER WILL BE GIVEN. For every life you transform ... THERE WILL BE TWO.

Want to take one for a test drive? During normal business hours, visit the lobby at the Texas Street entrance of First Presbyterian Church-Midland, at the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, on the west side of downtown Midland. You can give the gift of mobility. The cost of $72.00 is a bargain to us ... but it is a life-changing gift to impoverished and disabled recipients ... and for a limited time, your contribution will be matched, reaching not one - but TWO recipients. Please note on your check "Wheelchair Matching Gift."

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 26, 2012

FRANCE - Those whom all reject I will receive in the name of my Master.'' These are the words of Pastor Jean-Antoine (John) Bost in 1844. When John Bost was appointed as minister to La Force, a small village in southwestern France, he was deeply touched by the serious social problems of his time. In 1848, he opened the first of a number of buildings intended for those in social distress and for handicapped and incurably ill children for whom there was no other provision. By 1881, nine houses had been opened. At present there are 22 units for the mentally ill, for the handicapped, and for elderly people who cannot look after themselves..

CLICK HERE to read more.

EPCAT-USA: Signing the Tourism Child Protection Code of Conduct

ECPAT International is a global network of organisations and individuals working together for the elimination of child prostitution, child pornography and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes. It seeks to encourage the world community to ensure that children everywhere enjoy their fundamental rights free and secure from all forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

Signing the Tourism Child Protection Code of Conduct

On July 26 the Inn at Saint Mary's Hotel and Suites located in South Bend, Indiana became the 9th US-based company and 2nd single hotel property to sign the Tourism Child Protection Code of Conduct. The Inn at Saint Mary's will, among other things, create a policy against the commercial sexual exploitation of children and train its staff on how to identify and appropriately react to suspected cases of abuse.

The Project Liberty team with the General Manager from the Inn at Saint Mary's Hotel and Suites, Kim Kudelka

 

Our work with the Inn at Saint Mary's was initiated by Sister Ann Oestreich of the IHM Sisters of Monroe who approached General Manager Kimberly Kudelka about the issue of human trafficking and the Code. Kimberly was quickly struck by the issue and immediately wanted to react. Kimberly signed the Code at the Inn's summer event, which was attended by key industry stakeholders and our colleagues at Project Liberty.

 

ECPAT-USA is proud to partner with the Inn at Saint Mary's and happy to welcome them as members to the Code.

 

To learn more about what you can do to promote or become a member of the Code visit www.ecpatusa.org/thecode or contact michelle@ecpatusa.org

In the News ... "Local pastors react to claim Jesus had a wife"

By Lyxan Toledanes
Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Measured at about 1.6 inches by 3.1 inches, the small piece of papyrus with mysterious writings referring to the “wife” of Jesus has made headlines around the world and brings into discussion the beliefs of early Christians.

The artifact, made public on Tuesday by Harvard Divinity School Professor Karen King, is a papyrus fragment with Coptic writing saying, “Jesus said to them, ‘My wife …’”

But the claims of a married Jesus are nothing new, nor something that should have impact on Christian teachings, local pastors said.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the OA story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 25, 2012

SPAIN - Imagine that you want to help Christians grow in the knowledge of their faith. Imagine that they live in one of the most aggressively secular states in Europe - and that they worship in small congregations often led by lay people. That's the challenge facing the Seminario Evangelico Unido de Teologia (the United Evangelical Theological Seminary) in Spain. The seminary originated in 1884 and taught students during the long years of religious persecution and intolerance of Protestants. We focus on training that can be studied at a distance rather than on campus and that engages with contemporary life.

CLICK HERE to read more.

ChinaAid: China continues repatriating Kachin refugees forcibly

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

China continues repatriating Kachin refugees forcibly
Distributed by ChinaAid, September, 2012 ...

YUNAN, CHINA – On August 21, 2012, the Chinese government began to forcibly repatriate the Kachin refugees who had sought refuge in Yunnan province. Though the battles between the Kachin Independence Army and the Burmese government army continue, a large number of refugees have been forced to return to Kachin, as they had no alternative. On August 29th, the reporter interviewed several officials of the Kachin Independent government, in charge of refugee affairs, regarding the current situation. They gave relatively detailed answers to the plight of the refugees that is attracting attention in the outside world.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Invitation to Prayer

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

Prayer for Divine Guidance

Help me, Lord, to live one day at a time.

Thank you that your grace is sufficient for today

and that I don't need to worry about tomorrow,

because your grace will be sufficient for tomorrow also.

God, if you will, you can use even me.

Make me willing to be looked upon as foolish by the world,

if people should consider me so. Amen.

By Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983), from the A Book of Reformed Prayers
by Howard L. Rice & Lamar Williamson, Jr.

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Intercessor,

I remember reading Corrie ten Boom's book The Hiding Place a number of years ago and marveling at the courage she and her family displayed in hiding Jews from the Nazis during World War II. Corrie and her family risked their lives to help Jews escape the Nazis. In fact, their family was caught and sent to concentration camps in which Corrie's father, sister, brother, and nephew died as a result of their imprisonment.

The stories Corrie shared about her time in the camp were riveting, sometimes funny, and often poignant. She was released from the camp as a result of a clerical error and spent the next three decades ministering to those who were affected by the war and sharing Jesus Christ's message of love and forgiveness to people in more than 60 nations.

I stand in amazement at the determination and faith of this middle-aged watchmaker who became one of the most remarkable evangelists of the twentieth century. I stand in awe of this woman who was often considered "foolish" by those unfamiliar with the countercultural, against-the-norm message Jesus Christ proclaimed. And I give thanks for the example of faith Corrie's life has been to so many, including me

The Faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednesday, September 6, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, with lunch ($5) and fellowship to follow.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them (the really hard prayers to say sometimes), please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call.

Grace and peace,

Chris

In the News ... "Students to lead See You at the Pole events"

By Sarah Higgins
ReporterMidland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Church leaders are hoping the students who lead their peers in prayer around their schools' flag poles next week can be the start of a rejuvenation of a decades-old tradition in Midland.

This year's See You at the Pole, which will take place about a half hour before school Wednesday at junior high and high school campuses across the country, will focus locally on the Scripture of Joshua 6:16. The last half of the verse reads, "Joshua commanded the army, 'Shout! For the Lord has given you the city!'"

Students in Midland plan to pray for the city and its leaders as well as those from their school communities and the nation.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the MRT story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 24, 2012

PORTUGAL - The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Portugal (IEPP) is small, with only 3,000 members or friends and perhaps 22 ordained pastors in 31 congregations. It struggles to operate in a very difficult environment. Of Portugal's population of 10 million people, 9,990,000 are Roman Catholic and have been taught a superstitious version of Christianity. The Roman Catholic Church here has long had overwhelming power, privilege, and wealth. In such an environment, it is difficult to be a Protestant, and it is a testimony to both God's faithfulness and the resilience of Portuguese Presbyterians that the IEPP even exists.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 23, 2012

MINUTE FOR MISSION: NATIVE AMERICAN DAY - He was small in stature, shy, just like any other five-year-old upon entering a new environment. He would find safety and security behind his mother's skirts, even though everyone in the church was glad that his parents were coming and bringing him. It took several Sundays before he would join me in the Moment With the Children time during morning worship before going off to Sunday school, but once he felt safe and secure there was nothing shy about him.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Issued by ChinaAid ...

"This prayer band has been declared illegal in China."

"Chinese police have stopped people on the streets and taken the bands off their wrists. Some have been interrogated and arrested; at least three families were evicted from their homes—for the government, the prayer band is a symbol of revolution."

"We thank everyone across the U.S. and around the world who answered the call to wear a 'Pray for China' prayer band and pray during the Olympics. Your willingness to stand with Chinese house church Christians encouraged them as they also wore prayer bands and prayed for their country. Their commitment came with a cost. Read more."

"Yet, house church Christians refuse to be intimidated. They say that prayer for China is even more critical now that the world is no longer watching. Persecution has increased. Will you join in this revolution of prayer for China?"

"They can arrest me or put me in prison, but I'm not going to stop praying for China. Although the prayer band is banned in China, prayer can never be banned. I am asking every Christian to support believers in China by wearing a prayer band." - a prominent house church leader

"At this crucial time, will you partner in prayer? And, will you please forward this information to others who will want to pray for the persecuted in China."

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

EPCAT-USA: Buy Art, Not Kids!

ECPAT International is a global network of organisations and individuals working together for the elimination of child prostitution, child pornography and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes. It seeks to encourage the world community to ensure that children everywhere enjoy their fundamental rights free and secure from all forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

Buy Art, Not Kids!

ECPAT-USA's Annual Fundraiser will take place on Monday, October 22nd, generously hosted by the Salmagundi Art Club at 47 5th Avenue in New York City from 6PM to 9PM.

Buy Art Not Kids will be a silent auction event, offering art work from both internationally renowned and up-and-coming artists. In addition, works of art from survivors of sex trafficking will be a feature of the event, connecting it with ECPAT-USA's mission to protect victims. Be sure to check our website for updates including ticketing and an on-line catalogue previewing the art work. Please contact michelle@ecpatusa.org  to support ECPAT-USA and become a sponsor.

CLICK HERE to find out more about the exhibit, and how YOU can be a part of this effort.

Word from Uganda: "Grace"

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

Grace

So, I will throw it out their. A slight unveiling of my heart in this season. Having lived in this foreign land I now call home for five years now, I am so grateful the Lord continues to teach me new things about myself, my mission, and who I am in Him.

My housemate, Tiffany, said something awhile back that is basic, but has stuck with me since then: "We are here (in Uganda) by God's grace and it's His grace that keeps us here."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

ChinaAid: Lawyers for jailed Christian lawyer Gao Zhisheng barred from prison visit

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Lawyers for jailed Christian lawyer Gao Zhisheng barred from prison visit
Distributed by ChinaAid, September, 2012 ...

SHAYA, XCINJIANG, CHINA – Two lawyers for jailed Christian lawyer Gao Zhisheng were denied a meeting with him Monday by authorities at the prison in far west China where he has been held since last December, following years of being “disappeared” into police custody.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Issued by ChinaAid ...

"This prayer band has been declared illegal in China."

"Chinese police have stopped people on the streets and taken the bands off their wrists. Some have been interrogated and arrested; at least three families were evicted from their homes—for the government, the prayer band is a symbol of revolution."

"We thank everyone across the U.S. and around the world who answered the call to wear a 'Pray for China' prayer band and pray during the Olympics. Your willingness to stand with Chinese house church Christians encouraged them as they also wore prayer bands and prayed for their country. Their commitment came with a cost. Read more."

"Yet, house church Christians refuse to be intimidated. They say that prayer for China is even more critical now that the world is no longer watching. Persecution has increased. Will you join in this revolution of prayer for China?"

"They can arrest me or put me in prison, but I'm not going to stop praying for China. Although the prayer band is banned in China, prayer can never be banned. I am asking every Christian to support believers in China by wearing a prayer band." - a prominent house church leader

"At this crucial time, will you partner in prayer? And, will you please forward this information to others who will want to pray for the persecuted in China."

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

Traveling Mission

A TassaTag is a 4” x 6” bright, heavy, hand-woven cotton luggage tag that helps you spot your luggage more easily while reclaiming children's lives. It is practical, environmentally sensitive, fair trade, and with it you can make a difference.

With a TassaTag you support ECPAT-USA. This is a non-profit children's rights organization whose mission is to protect all children from commercial sexual exploitation, and is the US Chapter of Thailand-based ECPAT (End Child Prostitution and Trafficking) International, working at the community, national and international levels.

With a TassaTag you support The Regina Center in Nong Khai, Thailand, which provides education and income generating skills and opportunities for women. All proceeds from sales are returned to the producers. The project enables women to stay in their villages and keep their children in school, which are two major strategies in reducing sex trafficking.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this project
CLICK HERE to learn more about sex slavery and trafficking
CLICK HERE to order TassaTags

With a TassaTag you will be part of the ECPAT project by increasing the recognition of the TassaTag logo as a symbol against the sexual slavery and trafficking of children, raising greater awareness of this major illegal trade around the world, and being a voice positively addressing a serious children's rights issue.

EPCAT-USA: More Laurels for Our Film? We Hope So!

ECPAT International is a global network of organisations and individuals working together for the elimination of child prostitution, child pornography and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes. It seeks to encourage the world community to ensure that children everywhere enjoy their fundamental rights free and secure from all forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

More Laurels for Our Film? We Hope So!

J"What I Have Been Through Is Not Who I Am," our 21-minute documentary about sex trafficking of American children, winner of the "Best Short Documentary" award at the Filmanthropy Film Festival 2012, has been accepted as an official selection at the Global Peace Film Festival, September 18-23 in Orlando, Florida. The Global Peace Film Festival was established to utilize the power of the motion picture to further the goal of peace on earth, expanding the definition of peace beyond anti-war, ideology, activism or specific causes.

CLICK HERE to learn more and to find the Global Peace Film Festival screening schedule.

Reports From Lulwanda: Administrator's Report

Lulwanda Children's Home Administrator Patrick Busima holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Makerere University located in Kampala, Uganda. He has also taken formal training in management of personnel and management of projects. For 5 years he was Project Director of the Nawanjuki Child Development Center, after which he spent 5 years as Principal of the Yesu Afaayo Christian School.

July, 2012

"We thank God for his faithfulness towards Lulwanda children’s home. We thank everyone for the big “heart “that you have for the children at Lulwanda, may God bless you all."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Busima's July, 2012 report.

ChinaAid: Shaanxi Luonan house church’ summer camp suffers raid and arrest

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Shaanxi Luonan house church’ summer camp suffers raid and arrest
Distributed by ChinaAid, August, 2012 ...

SANYAO TOWN, SHANNXI, CHINA – ChinaAid has learned that at about 10 am on August 24, 2012, the students’ summer camp of a house church in Sanyao Town, Luonan County, Shaanxi Province, was raided by the Domestic Security Protection Agency. Students were forcibly dismissed. A teacher was arrested and released in the afternoon. School supplies including computers were taken by force and no legal papers were shown in this process.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Coming Next Week: Seminary president to visit Midland

The Reverend Dr. Theodore Wardlaw, President of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, will be 'preaching and teaching' in the Tall City when he visits First Presbyterian Church of Midland on Sunday, September 16. First Prez is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Texas and A streets, on the west edge of downtown Midland. The public is cordially invited to come church with us, and to hear Dr. Wardlaw. Childcare is available.

Theodore J. Wardlaw became the ninth president of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in the fall of 2002, having come to the Seminary from the position of Pastor of Atlanta’s Central Presbyterian Church, a historic downtown congregation directly across the street from the Georgia Capitol. President Wardlaw has led the Seminary through its $25 million Centennial Campaign, the largest in the Seminary’s history, as well as the campaign for and construction of the first in a new generation of student housing, the Anderson House apartment building, built in 2009.

Wardlaw received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina, his divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia, and his Master of Sacred Theology degree (American Church History) from Yale University Divinity School.

He has contributed numerous articles to such periodicals as The Christian Century, The Presbyterian Outlook, Journal for Preachers, Journal of Reformed Liturgy and Music, and Call to Worship.

President Wardlaw is married to Dr. Kay Bryant, a clinical psychologist, and they have two daughters.
CLICK HERE to read Dr. Wardlaw's complete bio

For more information about Dr. Wardlaw's visit, you may contact First Prez-Midland at (432) 684-7821 or nkudsi@fpcmid.org
___________________

For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 9, 2012

MINUTE FOR MISSION: CHRISTIAN EDUCATION - Life is full of puzzlers. Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Today's lectionary passage from James has us going in circles about whether faith or works come first. One puzzle that stirs our youth is: God-sightings or God's sightings?

Last summer, youth and adults from Latrobe Presbyterian Church spent a week on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where we saw poverty we have never seen in our small town in Pennsylvania. We were eager to live out our faith through hard work, and in turn, we were able to convert a bus into a mobile soup kitchen, provide indoor plumbing at a very remote house, re-roof a church, and dig an outhouse trench for a school. We worked hard.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Issued by ChinaAid ...

"This prayer band has been declared illegal in China."

"Chinese police have stopped people on the streets and taken the bands off their wrists. Some have been interrogated and arrested; at least three families were evicted from their homes—for the government, the prayer band is a symbol of revolution."

"We thank everyone across the U.S. and around the world who answered the call to wear a 'Pray for China' prayer band and pray during the Olympics. Your willingness to stand with Chinese house church Christians encouraged them as they also wore prayer bands and prayed for their country. Their commitment came with a cost. Read more."

"Yet, house church Christians refuse to be intimidated. They say that prayer for China is even more critical now that the world is no longer watching. Persecution has increased. Will you join in this revolution of prayer for China?"

"They can arrest me or put me in prison, but I'm not going to stop praying for China. Although the prayer band is banned in China, prayer can never be banned. I am asking every Christian to support believers in China by wearing a prayer band." - a prominent house church leader

"At this crucial time, will you partner in prayer? And, will you please forward this information to others who will want to pray for the persecuted in China."

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 8, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF NEWTON, NEW JERSEY - One thing is unbearable to 17-year-old Sabrina Brown - knowing that children all over the world go to bed at night with no arms to hold them and no blankets to keep them warm. So she decided to change the world one blanket at a time.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 7, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - Within the Presbytery of Newark's compact 150 square miles, God's love is being realized in families and among neighbors who want to experience authentic and hopeful living, and in communities that want to become places of well-being and connectedness. Each of the 38 distinct yet interdependent congregations provides a safe, welcoming place for worship, learning, and growth, empowered by the Spirit to demonstrate God's love for the world.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Traveling Mission

A TassaTag is a 4” x 6” bright, heavy, hand-woven cotton luggage tag that helps you spot your luggage more easily while reclaiming children's lives. It is practical, environmentally sensitive, fair trade, and with it you can make a difference.

With a TassaTag you support ECPAT-USA. This is a non-profit children's rights organization whose mission is to protect all children from commercial sexual exploitation, and is the US Chapter of Thailand-based ECPAT (End Child Prostitution and Trafficking) International, working at the community, national and international levels.

With a TassaTag you support The Regina Center in Nong Khai, Thailand, which provides education and income generating skills and opportunities for women. All proceeds from sales are returned to the producers. The project enables women to stay in their villages and keep their children in school, which are two major strategies in reducing sex trafficking.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this project
CLICK HERE to learn more about sex slavery and trafficking
CLICK HERE to order TassaTags

With a TassaTag you will be part of the ECPAT project by increasing the recognition of the TassaTag logo as a symbol against the sexual slavery and trafficking of children, raising greater awareness of this major illegal trade around the world, and being a voice positively addressing a serious children's rights issue.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).

Today in the Mission Yearbook: September 6, 2012

PRESBYTERY OF NEW YORK CITY - Hindi, Punjabi, Twi, Ewe, Thai, French, Spanish, and Korean are among the languages in which Presbyterians in New York City hear God's word and sing God's praises - often with drumming, dancing, and other expressions unique to each culture. The presbytery is home to eight immigrant fellowships working to become independent chartered congregations.

CLICK HERE to read more.

From ServLife International: "July/August 2012 Message"

ServLife International is a movement defined by values of God’s kingdom, not programs built around human efforts and activities. The reign and rule of God should be made apparent to every person on the planet, despite their religion, race or socioeconomic status. We believe that issues of justice are inseparable from the good news that Jesus Christ came to proclaim. ServLife exists to take the gospel of Christ and the hope of a better, more just, world to the lives of people we touch. This happens through individual contributions of time, creativity, resources and dreams.

"Driven to My Knees"
By Adam Nevins, Executive Director
ServLife International



Abraham Lincoln once said, "I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had no where else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me insufficient for that day."

That has resonated with me personally as of late. Not because things are difficult, but rather because they are busy and overwhelming. So much is going on at ServLife, and I find myself struggling to keep up. There is always more to be done, and I am easily overwhelmed these days. I am driven to my knees.

In this newsletter we want to give you a quick snapshot of all that is going on so that you are in the loop and can pray and support what God is doing. If you have any questions about any of this, always feel free to contact me personally at adam@servlife.org. Thank you for your prayers and support.

SCHOOL

In both India and Nepal school is underway and the children are doing great and have already completed their first term exams. Your sponsorships make their education possible, and about 50 children still need sponsored. If you are not yet a sponsor, please consider donating $30/mo and caring for a child today: Sponsor here.

 

India recently celebrated their Independence Day and the children gathered for a special morning ceremony led by Director Albert Das"

 

INDIA CHILDREN'S SCHOOL

The first floor of the children's home in India is almost completed and should be ready for the kids to move in before the end of the year. Pray that it is completed soon and the $40,000 necessary to finish gets fully funded. Donate today to support this work.

 

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP

The son of India Director Albert Das, Paul Das, has been attending college in California and is now entering his second year. God is working in Paul's life and giving him an education beyond what he is doing formally in college. Paul is growing in his intimacy with Christ, and was baptized in June of this year!

 

We are trying to fund Paul's second year of college and need your help. Read more here and help us support this family that has given so much to the service of God's Kingdom. We can be a part of helping to launch this young man on to great things as God continues to shape and mold his heart and mind.

PASTORS TRAINING

11 men and 2 women from all over Nepal have gathered in Kathmandu for this year's Pastor Training School. Director Lazarus Thulung describes them as "very mature and growing in their passion for ministry. We are busy in teaching and modeling them in their personal life."

 

The India Pastor Training School has also started with 8 students. Please pray for these students, that God would equip them for the ministry He has called them to.

 

THE OFFICE

Adam and Rachel have been very busy in the office working on a variety of projects, including a brand refresh and new website that will roll out before the end of the year. Adam has been traveling to California and Texas recently, visiting with donors and churches. If you would like to personally meet with Adam or have him share with your church, please contact rachel@servlife.org to schedule.

Go with ServLife and make disciples in this world of need ...

•  Contact us to learn more about short-term and volunteer opportunities.

•  Help us train and send a church planter to the frontiers of the gospel. Make a

   one-time gift or give on a monthly basis.

•   Make a difference in the life of a child. Give hope. Become a ServLife child sponsor.

•   Serve the poor through micro-lending. Give to the Hope Fund

Thank you for letting us share what is happening in the world through ServLife . . . together with you,

 

Adam

 

ServLife International is a non-profit organization planting communities of the Kingdom and restoring hope to children-at-risk and the global poor.

ServLife International, Inc.
P.O. Box 20596
Indianapolis, IN 46220
USA